At 88, Cameron Duodu stands tall—not just in stature, but as a towering figure in the annals of Ghanaian and international journalism.

His name is woven into the fabric of the profession; his voice still resonates, and his pen remains potent. As this veteran journalist, novelist, broadcaster, and relentless social critic marks his 88th birthday, I am honoured—both personally and professionally—to reflect on a life lived with uncompromising integrity, intellectual depth, and an enduring sense of mission.

Born on May 24, 1937, in Asiakwa in eastern Ghana, Cameron’s rise was not forged by privilege but by perseverance. Financial limitations meant he missed out on formal secondary and university education. Yet, driven by determination and a voracious appetite for knowledge, he charted his own path. Starting as a pupil teacher, he pursued his education privately, enrolling in a correspondence course through Rapid Results College in London. Remarkably, he passed his O-Level and A-Level examinations in just 15 months—a feat that underscored his intellectual drive and passion for reading.

“I never thought of myself as handicapped because of the lack of formal classroom education,” he once said. “Reading helped me in my work as a journalist. I just had the urge to read—and I read everything.”

That relentless habit of reading became the bedrock of an extraordinary career. Cameron began at New Nation, a general-interest magazine in Ghana, before joining the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC), where he rose to editor of radio news. His return to magazine publishing as editor of the Ghana edition of Drum—the iconic pan-African magazine—marked a turning point. He became the first African to hold that editorial position, giving voice to a continent on the rise.

In the 1960s, Cameron reached national prominence as editor of the Daily Graphic, Ghana’s most widely circulated newspaper. His incisive editorials and fearless commentary earned him admiration—and resistance. His influence quickly extended beyond Ghana. As a freelance journalist, he wrote for The Guardian, The Observer, The Economist, Financial Times, The Sunday Times, and De Volkskrant (Amsterdam). His work featured in South and Index on Censorship magazines, and he became a regular voice on BBC World and the BBC World Service, where he helped global audiences make sense of African politics, economics, and culture.

Today, he continues to write for New African (London), City Press (Johannesburg), and the Ghanaian Times (Accra), proving that neither age nor time has dulled his pen or dimmed his passion.

The Writer and the Word

Beyond journalism, Cameron is a literary force. His 1967 novel The Gab Boys—published by André Deutsch and later translated into German as Flucht nach Akkra—is a coming-of-age story that probes post-colonial identity, ambition, and moral compromise. Now a staple of African literature, it anticipated the literary activism that would later define a generation of writers. He has also written poetry and plays, enriching the African literary landscape.

Asked what his best-ever articles were, Cameron smiled shyly and asked: “How much space are they giving you? Because  I nearly lost my life sometimes, chasing  stories in foreign countries. I was… look  you need a follow-up piece, I am afraid!”

A Family Tapestry, A Personal Connection

My connection to Uncle Cameron runs deep. Two of his children—Kofi and Yvonne—were my classmates in the 1980 year group. I attended St. Augustine’s College (APSU), Kofi went to Mfantsipim School, and Yvonne to Wesley Girls’ High School—all three of us schooled in Cape Coast, the cradle of Ghanaian academic excellence.

Our familial bonds were further strengthened in Burma Camp. My best friend, Robert Wilson, is the son of Major Letitia Reindorf (Rtd.), and the Duodu children are his cousins. Through that link, our paths crossed early and have remained intertwined. Over the years, I have come to know Cameron’s other children—Yaw, Akwasi, Korieh, Maureen—and admire the close-knit, accomplished family he and his wife raised.

The Beer and the Thinkers

I have had the pleasure of many long, illuminating conversations with Cameron. He fondly recalls spirited intellectual exchanges with the late Prof. Kofi Awoonor—poet, diplomat, and former UN ambassador—and my late father, Col. Peter Mama Agbeko (Rtd.), a lawyer and army officer who served as the first Director of Legal Services of the Ghana Armed Forces. Their friendship, often accompanied by “some very cold and refreshing beer,” was a meeting of great minds who debated politics, literature, and the human condition with relentless passion.

Still Speaking Truth to Power

Even as an octogenarian, Cameron remains deeply engaged in national discourse. One issue that grips him is galamsey—the scourge of illegal mining that threatens Ghana’s environment and future. He has written compellingly about its dangers, calling it “an existential threat.” On more than one occasion, he has urged me personally to “keep writing on galamsey,” determined to keep the issue in the public consciousness until real solutions emerge.

Faith and the World

Though not born Catholic, Cameron holds a deep admiration for the late Pope Francis, whom he sees as a beacon of humility, moral clarity, and courage—qualities he holds dear. This admiration has shaped a thoughtful and more positive view of the Catholic Church, a perspective he shares with sincerity and reflection.

Recognition from Home

It was fitting that at this year’s Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) World Press Freedom Day and Honours Awards Night, Cameron was formally recognised for his outstanding contributions to journalism. The GJA tribute honoured his pioneering work, moral compass, and decades-long influence on generations of journalists.

Indeed, when my APSU/GIJ classmate and friend Kobby Asmah served as Editor of the Daily Graphic, Uncle Cameron and other distinguished veterans provided invaluable behind-the-scenes guidance and support. Their quiet mentorship helped uphold the values of professionalism and truth that remain essential to journalism today.

A Living Legacy

Cameron Duodu’s legacy is not confined to newspaper bylines or literary pages. It lives on in the people he has inspired, the ideas he has shaped, and the standards he has set. He reminds us that journalism is not just a job—it is a calling. His values—truth, justice, courage, and intellectual curiosity—continue to guide many, myself included.

As he turns 88, we celebrate more than a birthday—we celebrate a purposeful life that has enriched Ghana, Africa, and the world. Cameron Duodu is still writing, still challenging, still thinking—and still calling us all to do better.

Happy birthday, Uncle Cameron. You are, and will always be, a national treasure.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Alfred Ababio Kumi has been released unconditionally from NIB custody

Alfred Ababio Kumi, popularly known as Adenta Kumi, a former NPP parliamentary aspirant for Adenta, has been released unconditionally by the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) on the evening of Friday, May 23, 2025.

His release follows his arrest by the NIB in the early hours of the same day. He was officially charged with making a false publication.

In a petition, Kumi cited allegations of misconduct that he believes could undermine the integrity of the inquiry being conducted by the Pwamang Committee into the removal of the Chief Justice.

Kumi alleged that on May 15, 2025, after the committee’s inaugural sitting, Justices Pwamang and Adibu-Asiedu, along with Supreme Court Justice Yonni Kulendi, were seen dining with Thaddeus Sory, counsel for petitioner Daniel Ofori, at Santoku Restaurant in Accra’s Airport Residential Area.

He claimed they were overheard discussing matters related to the petition.

However, CCTV footage from the restaurant, which captures the presence of the individuals mentioned, does not appear to fully support Kumi’s claims.

In a video shared by Asaase Radio on social media, Alfred Ababio Kumi is seen in a vehicle with the Minority Leader, Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, who confirmed the young politician’s release.

“So, I am with Adenta Kumi. He is a free man. We just picked him up from NIB custody; he has been given an unconditional release. I pray that democracy prevails. This so-called ‘reset,’ where everyone is being frustrated, harassed, and intimidated using state security to attack citizens, must stop. It is unfortunate, but at long last, there is some common sense,” the Minority Leader stated.

📹📰/ Adenta Kumi released unconditionally. He is seen here with the Minority Leader, who helped secure his bail.”#AsaaseRadio pic.twitter.com/XUwaFEj3E4

— Asaase 99.5 (@asaaseradio995) May 23, 2025

KA

You can also watch the latest news on GhanaWeb TV below:

The recently appointed advisor to the Monetary Policy Committee of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Professor John Gartchie Gatsi, who is also Dean of the University of Cape Coast Business School,  is leading a team to help drive the introduction of Islamic Banking in Ghana, Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr Johnson Asiama , has said.

Islamic banking is defined as a banking system which is in consonance with the spirit, ethos and value system of Islam and governed by the principles laid down by Islamic Shariah. Interest-free banking is a narrow concept denoting a number of banking instruments or operations which avoid interest.

Answering questions during the 124th MPC press conference in Accra on Friday, May 24, Dr Asiama stated emphatically that the Bank of Ghana has the internal capacity to handle Islamic Banking.

He said, “Professor Gatsi is purposely here to help drive this introduction. Let me say that we have internal capacity, we have some people who know what it takes and what to do. However, we need a few steps. The head of banking supervision has gone through a lot of programmes, he is very comfortable with them. The current banking law, which is Act  930, which we passed in 2016, provides for it. However, there were some lapses. For example,  the establishment of the  Sharia supervisory boards and the like. Those were not captured in  Act 930, so Prof Gatsi and his team will be doing some work in that regard to ensure that we are able to operationalise Islamic financing, especially Islamic banking. Remember, it goes just beyond Islamic Banking, there are other aspects of financing involved. So we are working on it, hopefully  very soon, when we are ready, we can consider licenses to establish  an Islamic Bank.”

In other areas, Dr Johnson Asiama assured Ghanaians and the general public that they will soon see adjustments in prices of goods and services so long as there is competition.

This follows the appreciation of the Cedi against the Dollar.

Asked when Ghanaians are to expect price predictions on the market following the stability of the local currency, Dr Asiama answered that “You can understand that some people stock their goods at a higher exchange rate, and so naturally, even with the appreciation, it takes a while for you to see that adjustment.

“However, rest assured that you will see the adjustment certainly so long as there is competition, so long as it is not a monopoly, and we will see that kind of phenomenon very soon.”

Asked again whether the appreciation is sustainable, he answered, “The Cedi appreciation has to be put into proper context. Much as you want to have Cedi stability in nominal terms, the important thing here is to ensure that in real terms, the Cedi is not appreciating persistently. And so the MPC went into a lot of deliberations, looked at the real movement of the exchange rate, and we think that where we are now, we don’t have that problem of real appreciation that would adversely impact our competitiveness.

“So, for now, we think that the trend is in line; we are observing it continuously, though. But the appreciation is largely driven by the markets, it is not something that the central bank is using its reserves for. If you look at the data pack we have put out, you can see that our reserve programme is growing, so we are not using our reserves to intervene in the market, therefore, the appreciation you are seeing is driven by economic policy stance of the monetary policy, by international flows. So yes, it is appreciation; however, for us, it is about maintaining exchange rate stability .”

Prior to his answers, Dr Asiama had announced at the press conference that the MPC has maintained the Policy Rate at 28 per cent.

Dr Asiama stated, among other things, that headline inflation has declined consecutively in the first four months of the year, driven by both food and non-food inflation.

“The external sector has continued to improve, with a record provisional current account surplus of US$2.1 billion in the first quarter of 2025, driven mainly by higher prices and increased production volumes of gold and cocoa, and strong remittance inflows. The current account surplus, together with net outflows in the capital and financial account, resulted in an overall Balance of Payments surplus of US$1.1 billion. The strong external performance resulted in significant reserve accumulation. Gross International Reserves (GIR) amounted to US$10.7 billion in April 2025, equivalent to 4.7 months of import of goods and services. Broadly, the external sector outlook remains favourable, largely anchored on expectations of increased gold and cocoa export receipts, as well as inflows from remittances.

“The cedi has rebounded strongly against the major trading currencies driven by a combination of factors, including tight monetary policy stance, ongoing fiscal consolidation, record reserve accumulation, strict enforcement of foreign exchange market rules, and improved market sentiment. In the year to May 21, 2025, the cedi had appreciated against all the major currencies – 24.1 percent against the US dollar, 16.2 percent against the British pound, and 14.1 percent against the euro.

“The latest forecast points to continued easing of inflationary pressures on the back of tight monetary policy stance, exchange rate stability, and fiscal consolidation. Inflation is expected to ease faster towards the medium-term target in the first quarter of 2026 as opposed to the second quarter as earlier envisaged, barring unanticipated shocks.  Despite these positive developments, the Committee observed that the current level of inflation remains high relative to the medium-term target and will require maintaining the tight stance to reinforce the disinflation process. Under the circumstances, the Committee, by a unanimous decision, maintained the policy rate at 28 percent,” he said.

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Bank of Ghana (BoG) has maintained the Policy Rate at 28 per cent.

The Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr Johnson Asiama, announced this during the 124th MPC press briefing in Accra on Friday, May 23.

Dr Asiama stated, among other things, that headline inflation has declined consecutively in the first four months of the year, driven by both food and non-food inflation.

Regarding the local currency, Dr Asiama said that the Cedi has rebounded strongly against the major trading currencies.

He attributed this to a tight monetary stance, ongoing fiscal consolidation, record reserve accumulation, and strict enforcement of the forex market rules.

“The external sector has continued to improve, with a record provisional current account surplus of US$2.1 billion in the first quarter of 2025, driven mainly by higher prices and increased production volumes of gold and cocoa, and strong remittance inflows. The current account surplus, together with net outflows in the capital and financial account, resulted in an overall Balance of Payments surplus of US$1.1 billion. The strong external performance resulted in significant reserve accumulation. Gross International Reserves (GIR) amounted to US$10.7 billion in April 2025, equivalent to 4.7 months of import of goods and services. Broadly, the external sector outlook remains favourable, largely anchored on expectations of increased gold and cocoa export receipts, as well as inflows from remittances.

“The cedi has rebounded strongly against the major trading currencies driven by a combination of factors, including tight monetary policy stance, ongoing fiscal consolidation, record reserve accumulation, strict enforcement of foreign exchange market rules, and improved market sentiment. In the year to May 21, 2025, the cedi had appreciated against all the major currencies – 24.1 percent against the US dollar, 16.2 percent against the British pound, and 14.1 percent against the euro.

“The latest forecast points to continued easing of inflationary pressures on the back of tight monetary policy stance, exchange rate stability, and fiscal consolidation. Inflation is expected to ease faster towards the medium-term target in the first quarter of 2026 as opposed to the second quarter as earlier envisaged, barring unanticipated shocks.  Despite these positive developments, the Committee observed that the current level of inflation remains high relative to the medium-term target and will require maintaining the tight stance to reinforce the disinflation process. Under the circumstances, the Committee, by a unanimous decision, maintained the policy rate at 28 percent,” he said.

The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) has dismissed reports of operational and safety lapses at the Kotoka International Airport (KIA).

It follows widespread reportage suggesting a series of allegations regarding equipment shortages, staff safety and restricted access protocols.

But management of GACL in a statement rebutted and described the reports as not only misrepresented but also false and misleading because they undermine the reputation of the aviation industry.

While warning that individuals spreading false information or defamatory content will face disciplinary and legal action, it added that it will continue to maintain world-class safety and operational standards at its facilities.

Read the full statement below:

“The attention of Management of GACL has been drawn to a publication in the Herald Newspaper of Friday, May 23, 2025 on various media platforms.

GACL wishes to respond as follows:

The article alleges that there is only one operational vehicle. On the contrary the Airside Operations Section has two dedicated vehicles to support the airside operations, in addition to a fleet of operational vehicles available for round the clock use.

The assertion that only three pairs of wands are currently operational is false. The number of marshalling wands used depends on aircraft movement. Currently there is a surplus of marshalling wands in stock for operations at the company’s central stores.

Staff of Airside Operations Section have been provided with the required quantity of Personal Protective Equipment (i.e reflective vests, wellington boots, raincoat, safety boots, hand gloves, ear defenders, googles & safety blankets). This assertion is categorically false. PPE’s were distributed in Accra and the regional airports as well.

The claim that Motorola radios used for coordinating operations are mostly unserviceable is false. The Airside Operations section has been provided with adequate handheld and base radios for effective communication between the Airside Operations and Air Traffic Control.

Regarding access to some restricted areas of the airport, there is a protocol where Aviation Security grant staff access to restricted areas as and when necessary. This is to enhance security while maintaining safety standards, therefore the allegation of airside staff unable to access certain restricted areas to carry out inspections is false.

There is currently no agitation amongst staff of Airside operations as a few bad nuts would want. Staff found complicit in fabricating and spreading malicious lies about the organization to put the image of the company, the management and the government’s image into disrepute emanating from their own parochial interest will be dealt with severely.

Media houses who accept to disseminate defamatory articles without researching the facts will also be dealt with according to the full rigors of the law.

Ghana Airports Company Limited remains committed to providing the highest level of safety and security to both staff and passengers.

Facts and pictorial evidence of the items being purported to be lacking tools for airside operations are captured below”.

Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, former Deputy Minister of Education and Ranking Member on Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee, has called on Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa to resign immediately following reports that Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang returned to Ghana aboard a private jet. 

In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday, Ntim Fordjour invoked Ablakwa’s past comments and vows made while in opposition, insisting that the Minister must now live up to his own standards. 

“Okudzeto Ablakwa… do the noble thing and resign with immediate effect,” the former deputy minister stated. “You hang yourself with your words!”

Ntim Fordjour’s comments reference Ablakwa’s well-known stance against the use of private jets for presidential and vice-presidential travel. 

While in opposition, Ablakwa publicly criticised such travel arrangements as wasteful and unnecessary, often publishing detailed accounts of costs and raising concerns over government expenditure. 

According to Ntim Fordjour, these past remarks were “populist stunts” which earned Ablakwa applause within his party but failed to acknowledge the reality that certain official exigencies might necessitate the use of private jets.

“You were categorical in your vow. You dared Ghanaians that you would immediately resign as Minister if your Presidency used a private jet in their regime,” Fordjour asserted in his post. 

He added that the current situation involving Vice President Opoku-Agyemang, whose flight was reportedly paid for with public funds, represents a clear breach of the principles Ablakwa claimed to uphold. 

“Be a man of PRINCIPLES and RESIGN!” he urged. Fordjour also clarified that using private jets is not inherently criminal or inappropriate when the official Presidential jet is unavailable.

As of the time of reporting, Mr Ablakwa has not publicly responded to Rev. Fordjour’s demand. 

However, the issue has already sparked political debate and renewed scrutiny over government expenditure and accountability. 

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Alfred Ababio Kumi has been released unconditionally from NIB custody

Alfred Ababio Kumi, popularly known as Adenta Kumi, a former NPP parliamentary aspirant for Adenta, has been released unconditionally by the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) on the evening of Friday, May 23, 2025.

His release follows his arrest by the NIB in the early hours of the same day. He was officially charged with making a false publication.

In a petition, Kumi cited allegations of misconduct that he believes could undermine the integrity of the inquiry being conducted by the Pwamang Committee into the removal of the Chief Justice.

Kumi alleged that on May 15, 2025, after the committee’s inaugural sitting, Justices Pwamang and Adibu-Asiedu, along with Supreme Court Justice Yonni Kulendi, were seen dining with Thaddeus Sory, counsel for petitioner Daniel Ofori, at Santoku Restaurant in Accra’s Airport Residential Area.

He claimed they were overheard discussing matters related to the petition.

However, CCTV footage from the restaurant, which captures the presence of the individuals mentioned, does not appear to fully support Kumi’s claims.

In a video shared by Asaase Radio on social media, Alfred Ababio Kumi is seen in a vehicle with the Minority Leader, Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, who confirmed the young politician’s release.

“So, I am with Adenta Kumi. He is a free man. We just picked him up from NIB custody; he has been given an unconditional release. I pray that democracy prevails. This so-called ‘reset,’ where everyone is being frustrated, harassed, and intimidated using state security to attack citizens, must stop. It is unfortunate, but at long last, there is some common sense,” the Minority Leader stated.

📹📰/ Adenta Kumi released unconditionally. He is seen here with the Minority Leader, who helped secure his bail.”#AsaaseRadio pic.twitter.com/XUwaFEj3E4

— Asaase 99.5 (@asaaseradio995) May 23, 2025

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You can also watch the latest news on GhanaWeb TV below:

Alfred Ababio Kumi, also known as Adenta Kumi, has been released from the custody of the National Investigations Bureau (NIB).

He was been sighted in photos exchanging pleasantries with Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, moments ago.

Mr Kumi was arrested by NIB operatives on Friday, an arrest the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has officially condemned and accused the NDC government of intimidating opposition elements.

His lawyer, Clement Opoku Gyamfi indicated that stated that his client has been charged with publication of false news by the Bureau.

The arrest this morning after he submitted a petition to President John Mahama, calling for the dissolution of a committee investigating the removal of the Chief Justice.

Mr Kumi, a former New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary aspirant in Adentan, alleged misconduct on the part of the committee members that, he claimed, could compromise the credibility of their inquiry.

In his petition, Kumi accused Justices Pwamang, Adibu-Asiedu, and Supreme Court Justice Yonni Kulendi of meeting with Thaddeus Sory—legal counsel for the petitioner Daniel Ofori—at Santoku Restaurant in Accra’s Airport Residential Area after the committee’s first hearing on May 15, 2025.

Kumi claims the judges were overheard discussing issues related to the petition during the dinner.

A video of the supposed meeting has since gone viral online with many questioning the credibility of the content.

Meanwhile, the General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Justin Frimpong Kodua, has claimed that the wife of Alfred Ababio Kumi suffered a miscarriage following a dramatic dawn raid by state security operatives during his arrest.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Hearts of Oak produced a dominant display to beat Accra Lions in their matchday 32 encounter

Hearts of Oak produced a dominant display to beat Accra Lions in their matchday 32 encounter of the Ghana Premier League at the Accra Sports Stadium.

Late goals from Kofi Asmah and Hamza Issah, as well as an early Enoch Asubonteng strike, ensured the Phobians secured back-to-back wins.

Lawrence Setordjie scored a spectacular long-range drive but left the pitch a minute later due to injury.

The hosts started the game on a bright note, coming close through Raphael Amponsah before Enoch Asubonteng broke from the left to fire past Daniel Afful in the 11th minute.

Accra Lions gradually warmed their way into the match, with Yao Sokpoli and Setordjie coming close, but goalkeeper Benjamin Asare was equal to the task.

Asamoah Boateng almost doubled Hearts of Oak’s lead after taking on Afful, but his goal-bound effort was cleared off the line by Hamza Issah.

After the break, Accra Lions seized control of the match with the introduction of Daniel Acquah and Edmund Amakye.

Following waves of attack, the Lions responded with a well-taken strike from Setordjie, who met a ball after a corner kick from the visitors.

Accra Lions were later punished after failing to clear a ball in the box, with Issah teeing up Asmah for the second goal.

Issah then turned from provider to scorer, following a swift counter from the Phobians, lobbing the ball past Afful.

Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Yussif Sulemana

The Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Yussif Sulemana, has cautioned the newly inaugurated members of the Oti Regional Lands Commission Board to ensure that land does not become a bottleneck to development but rather a catalyst for growth. He made this statement during the official inauguration of the board in Dambai on May 22, 2025.

Delivering his address on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama, the Deputy Minister congratulated the newly appointed members and charged them with upholding integrity, professionalism, and transparency in all their dealings.

The inauguration marked a significant step in Ghana’s decentralization agenda, aiming to bring land administration closer to the people. Sulemana emphasized the critical role land governance plays in national development, especially in supporting the envisioned 24-hour economy through secure land rights, quick transactions, and effective land-use planning.

He further highlighted the government’s commitment to digitizing land records through the Enterprise Land Information System (ELIS), urging the Commission to fully embrace this innovation to enhance efficiency and reduce corruption. He also called on members to work closely with traditional leaders in establishing Customary Land Secretariats, in line with the Land Act, 2020 (Act 1036), to ensure proper documentation and protection of customary lands.

On behalf of the Volta Regional Minister and Chairman for the occasion, John Kwadwo Gakpa described the inauguration as a historic milestone. He lauded the collaborative efforts that led to its success and encouraged the Commission to remain accountable and transparent in service delivery, adding, “Every parcel of land must be properly registered and managed responsibly.”

Nana Mprah Besemuna III, who chairs the newly inaugurated Commission, expressed gratitude to the President and the Lands Commission for the opportunity. He pledged the board’s commitment to working closely with stakeholders to improve land services and foster development in the region.

The inauguration of the Oti Regional Lands Commission is expected to strengthen local governance, improve public access to land services, and promote sustainable land management for the socio-economic advancement of the region.

Members of the board include:

Nana Mprah Besemuna III – Chairman

Yaw Acheampong Amoah – Acting Regional Lands Officer (Secretary)

Gadzekpo Emmanuel – Ghana National Association of Fishermen & Farmers

Felix Kwamla Seloame – LUPSA

Nana Akoto Musakyi III – Regional House of Chiefs

Cyril Gadegbeku – Ghana Institution of Surveyors

John Mark Bekoe – Ghana Bar Association (GBA)

Anebo Philip Kwaku – Nkwanta South Municipal

Akopor Wiah Nathaniel – Krachi West Municipal

Ladzi Emmanuel – Krachi East Municipal

George Grant Dogli – Jasikan Municipal

Nana Sampson Fordjour – Krachi Nchumuru District

Richard Opoku – Biakoye District

Fankibi Joseph – Kadjebi District

Silas Atikpo Brownson – Guan District

Musah Mumuni Basit – Nkwanta North District

This Saturday on Newsfile, host Samson Lardy Anyenini and his panelists will discuss the unfolding legal and political storm surrounding the suspension and possible removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.

The conversation comes in the wake of developments this week. The suspended Chief Justice, Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, has filed an application at the Supreme Court seeking to restrain a committee set up by President John Mahama to investigate petitions seeking her removal from office.

In the suit filed on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, the Chief Justice requested an interlocutory injunction to halt all proceedings of the committee, pending the final determination of the case.

According to court documents, the Chief Justice wants the Supreme Court to issue an order restraining the six-member committee.

The panel will look at whether this situation shows growing tension between the judiciary and the government, and what it means for the law and democracy in Ghana.

Also on the show, the panel will discuss the recent flooding incidents that affected various parts of Accra and other parts of the country, and the challenges faced by residents and the responses from authorities.

The floods resulted in the loss of three lives and caused significant damage to homes, shops, and personal property on May 18.

The panel will discuss the implications of this flooding event, examining the role of infrastructure planning and maintenance in urban areas, and explore measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.

The show will discuss whether these issues reveal deeper challenges within Ghana’s governance and infrastructure management.

Newsfile airs live on the JoyNews channel on digital satellite channels 421 on DSTV and 144 on GoTV, and streams on JoyNews’ Facebook or YouTube channels on Saturdays from 9 am to noon.

Viewers can also follow the discussion by tuning in to Joy 99.7 FM or Luv 99.5 FM on the radio or stream the discussion live on either Google or Apple Podcasts.

Newsfile is your most authoritative news analysis programme.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

play videoDr Johnson Asiama, Bank of Ghana Governor

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Bank of Ghana is set to announce its decision on the policy rate, a key determinant of lending costs for the next two months.

The policy rate dictates the interest rate at which banks lend to businesses and the private sector, significantly influencing economic activity.

During its 123rd meeting in 2025, the MPC raised the policy rate by 100 basis points, from 27 percent to 28 percent, citing inflationary risks in the economic outlook.

At the opening of the 124th MPC meeting on Wednesday, March 21, 2025, the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr Johnson Asiama, stated that Ghana’s economy is showing early signs of stabilisation, supported by recent policy measures and improving economic fundamentals, both domestic and external.

However, he was quick to caution that “the path ahead remains complex and fraught with risks, both global and domestic.”

The Governor also highlighted recent positive developments in the economy, including a notable decline in inflation and a strong appreciation of the cedi.

The Central Bank is expected to present the committee’s conclusions soon, including any changes to the policy rate and strategic measures aimed at ensuring macroeconomic stability and promoting sustained

Watch the stream below

In a move to restore dignity to women living with obstetric fistula, Ghana has launched a nationwide initiative offering free surgeries in five major hospitals.

The initiative, led by the Partnership to End Fistula in Ghana (PEFIC), aims to eliminate one of the most debilitating childbirth-related conditions by providing comprehensive care and reintegration support to survivors.

The designated hospitals now offering free fistula repairs include Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (Kumasi), Ho Teaching Hospital (Volta Region), Tamale West Hospital (Northern Region), Mercy Women Catholic Hospital (Central Region), and Upper West Regional Hospital.

The announcement was made by Dr. Wilfred Ochan, Country Representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), during a commemorative event on May 23 at Ho Teaching Hospital marking the International Day to End Obstetric Fistula.

“This year, we decided to take the conversation out of the conference rooms and into clinics and communities,” Dr. Ochan emphasized, underscoring the need to confront the stigma and isolation that fistula survivors endure.

Obstetric fistula, caused primarily by prolonged or obstructed labour, results in a hole between the birth canal and the bladder or rectum, leading to uncontrollable leakage of urine or faeces.

Beyond the physical trauma, affected women often suffer severe psychological and social rejection ,many lose their babies, are abandoned by spouses, and are excluded from basic social activities.

Restoring Hope, One Surgery at a Time

PEFIC, officially launched in December 2023 by former First Lady Rebecca Akufo-Addo, has rapidly grown from seven founding partners to 18 institutions.

These include ministries, health facilities, international organizations like WHO and WFP, and private sector players such as Fidelity Bank, Access Bank, and AT (formerly AirtelTigo).

Non-governmental organizations such as Qatar Charity and MCAM are also contributing significantly to the campaign.

Qatar Charity is building a shelter for fistula patients in Yendi, providing a safe space for recovery and reintegration.

At the same time, the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection is constructing a new surgical theatre in Tamale to support the increased demand for repairs and improve access to quality care in the Northern Region.

The estimated cost per patient around $700 covers transportation, surgery, and two weeks of recovery care.

While the Ghana Health Service provides the clinical workforce and infrastructure, other partners support with logistics, public education, and infrastructure projects.

“It’s not just about performing the surgery,” Dr. Ochan noted. “We must ensure each woman is transported safely, given a place to heal, and supported to rejoin her family and community.”

From Donor Dependency to National Ownership

What began with a modest $60,000 in donor support has evolved into a nationally-owned, multi-sectoral campaign.

Ghana’s move toward self-sufficiency is a beacon of hope for countries battling similar maternal health challenges.

With skilled delivery care now covering 87-88% of births in health facilities, the nation is making visible strides but challenges remain.

Ghana’s maternal mortality rate stands at approximately 310 deaths per 100,000 live births, and for every death, about 20 women suffer serious complications many of which are preventable, like obstetric fistula.

How to Access the Free Surgery

Women in need of fistula repair can contact the following hospitals:

Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (Kumasi) – 057 020 2800

Ho Teaching Hospital (Volta Region) – 027 939 0179

Tamale West Hospital (Northern Region) – 027 701 3270

Mercy Women Catholic Hospital (Central Region) – 027 523 2127

Upper West Regional Hospital – 055 849 6307

A Future Free of Fistula

With this new campaign, Ghana is not only treating a condition it is restoring dignity, empowering women, and setting a global example.

“We’ve moved from dependency to sustainability,” said Dr. Ochan. “This is what national commitment to maternal health looks like.”

As the country accelerates efforts to eradicate obstetric fistula by 2030, the collaboration between government, civil society, the private sector, and international agencies marks a hopeful turning point in the lives of thousands of women.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Accra, May 23,GNA-Nexans Kabelmetal Ghana Limited has inaugurated a new 532kWp grid-tied solar power system at its Tema factory.

This system is projected to generate an average of 50.51 MWh of electricity per month, providing 55% of the plant’s daytime power needs.

The 900 photovoltaic modules installed are expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 11.7 tonnes per quarter.

This renewable energy source will cover 25% of the plant’s overall energy consumption, which is used to produce various cables for building, industry, and infrastructure.

The project was commissioned by Daystar Power, a hybrid solar energy provider for businesses and industrial manufacturers in Africa and a member of the Shell Group.

The official unveiling was attended by Mr John Abdulai Jinapor, Minister of Energy and Green Transition, and Mr Jules-Armand Aniambossou, French Ambassador to Ghana.

Key figures commented on the inauguration:
Mr. Alexander Quarcoopome , Chief Executive Officer of Nexans Kabelmetal Ghana Ltd, stated that the achievement was a key milestone in their E3 journey, focusing on economic performance, environmental impact reduction, and community engagement.

He emphasized the company’s commitment to leading Ghana’s energy transition and demonstrating that sustainability and industry excellence could go hand in hand.

Mr Alex Quarcoopome added; “I would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to our strategic partner, the National Investment Bank (NIB), for its invaluable contributions to our journey over the years. NIB’s support has gone far beyond financial investment—it reflects a deep and consistent commitment to driving industrial growth and advancing Ghana’s economic development.

Their partnership with Nexans Kabelmetal Ghana Ltd, stands as a strong testament to their dedication to empowering local industries and fostering sustainable national progress.”

Mr Jules-Armand Aniambossou, French Ambassador to Ghana, expressed pride in Nexans Kabelmetal Ghana setting an example for sustainable industrial development and highlighted the project as a demonstration of private sector leadership in climate action.

Mr Victor Ezenwoko, Ghana Country Head of Daystar Power, noted that the project was an example of how companies could adopt solar energy to meet carbon emission targets and save on energy costs.

He also expressed pride in having their first ground-mounted system in Ghana located in the country’s leading manufacturing hub.

Nexans Kabelmetal Ghana Ltd, established in 1968, is the first cable manufacturer in the region and a leading producer of electrical cables in Ghana.

The Tema factory operates under stringent international standards like IEC and holds ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, and ISO 45001:2018 certifications, reflecting its dedication to quality, environmental sustainability, and occupational health and safety.

The company’s product range serves various sectors including energy, housing, infrastructure, construction, and mining.
Nexans, the parent company, has been involved in electrification for over a century and aims to electrify the future.

With approximately 28,500 employees in 41 countries, Nexans is committed to safe, sustainable, and decarbonized electricity for all.

In 2024, Nexans generated €7.1 billion in standard sales. The Group leads in designing and manufacturing cable systems and services across four business areas: PWR-Transmission, PWR-Grid, PWR-Connect, and Industry & Solutions.

Nexans was also the first in its industry to establish a Foundation supporting sustainable initiatives and providing energy access to disadvantaged communities globally.

The Group is recognized for its climate action and has committed to Net-Zero emissions by 2050, aligned with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

GNA

Edited by Samuel Osei-Frempong

The Ghana Audit Service has firmly rejected claims made by the University of Ghana chapter of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG-UG) concerning its recent audit report on the university’s employee compensation.

The Service maintains that its findings—highlighting a GH¢59.2 million overstatement in employee compensation between 2022 and 2024—are accurate and conducted in full compliance with internationally recognized auditing standards.

UTAG-UG had challenged the Auditor-General’s report at a press conference on May 20, describing the findings as “misleading” and accusing the Audit Service of failing to adequately engage with the university’s management.

In a press release dated May 23, 2025, the Audit Service dismissed these criticisms, urging the public to disregard UTAG-UG’s assertions. It stressed that its audits are conducted in accordance with International Standards for Supreme Audit Institutions (ISSAIs) and Ghana’s legal framework, including the 1992 Constitution, the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921), and the Audit Service Act, 2000 (Act 584).

The Service clarified that audit reports are not designed to “disallow legitimate payments” but to ensure compliance with financial regulations and prevent mismanagement of public funds. It reiterated that its audits intend to correct irregularities and promote accountability, not to damage the reputation of any institution.

Addressing UTAG-UG’s claim of insufficient engagement, the Audit Service stated that there were multiple interactions with the University of Ghana’s management regarding employee compensation.

It assured the public of the integrity of its findings, stating that its reports “are never intended to mislead” and that the Service remains committed to transparency, professionalism, and accountability.

The statement further explained that payroll verification for subvented institutions—including the University of Ghana—is handled in line with Regulation 91(3) of the Public Financial Management Regulation, 2019 (L.I. 2378). Any payroll entries without financial clearance or containing unapproved allowances are disallowed and treated as savings to the state.

The Audit Service concluded by urging Ghanaians to have confidence in its processes, noting that all Auditor-General reports submitted to Parliament are publicly accessible on its official website. The Service reaffirmed its commitment to good governance and financial discipline across the public sector.

Read also

Effective leadership behind cedi gains – Mahama tells Bawumia

The CEO of Margins ID Group, Moses Kwesi Baiden Jr., has outlined the impact of Ghana’s national biometric ID system—the Ghana Card—on the country’s healthcare sector.

Speaking at the ID4Africa 2025 summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, during a session focused on digital identity and public service delivery, Mr. Baiden described how the Ghana Card is being used to improve efficiency and reduce costs in healthcare.

According to Baiden, the integration of the Ghana Card into the healthcare system has allowed the government to eliminate the need for separate National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) cards. This consolidation, he said, is saving the government millions of dollars annually by streamlining identity verification and reducing instances of healthcare fraud.

The Ghana Card, a legally mandated biometric identity document, has now been issued to over 98% of the adult population, with efforts ongoing to register children. Baiden said that more than 200 million biometric verifications have been processed through the system so far.

Margins ID Group, a private Ghanaian company, was one of only two African firms represented at this year’s summit. Through its subsidiaries, Identity Management Systems (IMS) and Intelligent Card Production Systems (ICPS), it partnered with the National Identification Authority (NIA) to develop and roll out the card.

In his address, Baiden argued that a single, integrated identity system is essential for digital governance and development. He pointed to the card’s application beyond healthcare, including its use in banking, education, and government services, as evidence of its broader value.

He also called for greater inclusion of African-developed digital identity solutions in global discussions, stating that Africa should not be seen only as a market but also as a source of innovation.

The ID4Africa summit, held annually, brings together identity authorities, technology providers, and policymakers from across the continent. As African countries work toward the UN Sustainable Development Goal 16.9—to provide legal identity for all by 2030—Ghana’s experience with the Ghana Card was presented as one possible model for others to examine.

Baiden stressed that the success of identity systems should be measured not just by technical achievements but by their ability to deliver tangible benefits to society.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

The President, John Dramani Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to restoring forest reserves degraded by illegal mining activities popularly known as galamsey through a comprehensive reclamation program supported by the carbon credit system.

Speaking at the Jubilee House on Friday, May 23, 2025, when the Catholic Bishops Conference paid a courtesy call on him, the former President disclosed the extent of environmental degradation caused by illegal mining.

He described the extent of destruction caused by galamsey as troubling and stressed the urgency of coordinated efforts.

“16% of our forest reserves have been destroyed and encroached upon. It will need both reclamation and rehabilitation of the forest. And we are intending to do that under the carbon credit system”, he noted.

Illegal mining activities persist in the country despite efforts by successive governments to combat the menace.

The government has introduced the Blue Water Guards initiative to support enforcement operations against galamsey.

The move forms part of broader efforts to combat illegal mining and restore Ghana’s water bodies.

Watch the video below:

Mahama Vows to Reclaim Galamsey-Damaged Forests:

President Mahama has reaffirmed his commitment to ending illegal mining, assuring the Ghana Catholic Bishops Conference that the government is on track to restore all forests devastated by galamsey.#ChannelOneNews | #CitiVerify pic.twitter.com/SF9bpJH5iF

— ChannelOne TV (@Channel1TVGHA) May 23, 2025

JKB/MA

You can also watch the latest news on GhanaWeb TV below:

Introduction

When a loan officer at Ecobank Ghana or Fidelity Bank asks a colleague, “What’s the score?” they’re rarely discussing the Black Stars’ latest football match.

Instead, they’re likely referring to a loan applicant’s credit score—a crucial metric in the evolving African financial landscape.

Credit scoring, a statistical method that predicts the probability of loan default or delinquency, arrived relatively late to Africa compared to Western markets but has rapidly transformed lending practices across the continent.

For Ghana specifically, with its growing middle class and vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem centered in Accra and Kumasi, credit scoring represents both an opportunity and a challenge.

The country’s journey from predominantly cash-based transactions to digital financial services has created new possibilities for data-driven lending decisions, while highlighting unique obstacles in implementation.

What is Credit Scoring in the African Context?

Credit scoring in Africa has evolved distinctively from Western models, adapting to the continent’s unique financial ecosystem. While the fundamental purpose remains evaluating credit risk, African credit scoring addresses specific regional challenges, particularly the lack of traditional credit histories for most of the population.

In Ghana, where the Ghana Credit Reference Bureau Association estimates less than 25% of adults have formal credit histories as of 2023, innovative approaches have emerged. Modern African credit scoring models incorporate alternative data sources particularly relevant to Ghana’s context:

• Mobile money transaction patterns (via MTN Mobile Money, Vodafone Cash, etc.)
• Telecom data (call patterns, airtime purchases, data usage)
• Digital payment history through platforms like expressPay and Hubtel
• Agricultural inputs and harvest data for rural borrowers
• SSNIT (Social Security) contribution consistency
• Merchant sales data from platforms like Paystack and Flutterwave
• Psychometric assessments measuring business acumen and integrity

Ghanaian fintech Bloom Impact, for instance, has developed scoring algorithms that analyze mobile money transactions alongside business registration data to evaluate micro-entrepreneurs in Kumasi’s central market. Their 2023 data showed 31% higher accuracy in predicting repayment compared to traditional methods.

A typical Ghanaian credit scoring system might evaluate:

1. Limited traditional credit bureau data (where available)
2. Mobile money and digital payment history
3. Telecom behavior patterns
4. Business formalization status (registration with Registrar-General’s Department)
5. Social verification through community references
6. For agricultural loans, seasonal patterns and crop diversification

The Bank of Ghana’s 2022 regulatory framework for digital lending has standardized some of these approaches while ensuring consumer protection in this rapidly evolving space.

Where is Credit Scoring Used in Africa with Focus on Ghana?

Consumer Lending

The consumer lending landscape in Ghana and broader Africa has been transformed by credit scoring innovations that address the continent’s unique characteristics. Unlike Western markets dominated by FICO and VantageScore, Africa has developed more localized solutions.

XDS Data Ghana and Dun & Bradstreet Credit Bureau Limited, the two major credit reference bureaus licensed by the Bank of Ghana, have developed scoring systems tailored to Ghanaian consumers. According to their 2023 data, these bureaus can now score approximately 4.5 million Ghanaians, representing about 25% of the adult population—a significant improvement from just 5% coverage in 2015.

Mobile-based lenders have been at the forefront of consumer credit innovation. Letshego Ghana’s “Qwikloan” product, offered in partnership with MTN Mobile Money, uses algorithmic scoring to provide instant loans up to GHS 2,000 to qualified customers. Their proprietary scoring evaluates mobile money transaction patterns and repayment history to make instant credit decisions, serving over 1.2 million Ghanaians as of 2023.

Home Financing

Unlike Western mortgage markets with their long-established underwriting systems, Ghana’s home financing sector is still developing. Ghana Home Loans (now part of First National Bank) has pioneered credit scoring for housing finance, creating systems that accommodate Ghana’s unique property ownership challenges.

Their “Step-Up Home Loan” program uses a scoring system that considers not only traditional employment income but also remittance consistency for diaspora Ghanaians and incremental building patterns common in Ghanaian homeownership journeys. This approach has helped Ghana Home Loans increase approval rates for middle-income Ghanaians by 28% since 2021.

The Ghana Real Estate Developers Association (GREDA) has partnered with Ecobank to develop standardized credit assessment tools for potential homebuyers at developments like Appolonia City and Lakeside Estate. These tools incorporate both formal employment verification and informal income assessment, reflecting Ghana’s economic reality.

MSME Lending

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are the backbone of Ghana’s economy, comprising over 85% of businesses. Credit scoring has revolutionized how these businesses access capital:

• Mobile-First Lenders: Fintechs like Nokwary Technologies based in Accra use natural language processing to analyze Ghanaian small business transactions via WhatsApp and USSD. Their AI-powered credit scoring evaluates business viability for market women and small shop owners in places like Makola Market, offering loans from GHS 1,000-10,000 with approval in under 30 minutes.
• Banking Integration: Traditional Ghanaian banks including GCB Bank and NIB have integrated scoring models into their SME lending. GCB’s “SME Quick Loan” uses a scoring system that evaluates transactions through their Temenos core banking system alongside business registration data from the Registrar-General’s Department.
• Sector-Specific Approaches: Agricultural lending has seen specialized scoring innovations. Farmerline, headquartered in Kumasi, has developed “Mergdata,” a platform that scores farmers for creditworthiness based on land size verification through GPS mapping, crop yields, and adherence to farming practices. Over 70,000 cocoa and maize farmers in the Western and Ashanti Regions have received input financing through these models.
• Value Chain Financing: Trade finance platform Jetstream Africa uses credit scoring to evaluate Ghanaian exporters of products like shea butter and processed cocoa, analyzing customs data, buyer contracts, and historic shipment performance to extend working capital loans averaging GHS 120,000.

New Frontiers: Pay-Later Services and Embedded Finance

Ghana’s credit scoring landscape has evolved to support emerging financial products with local relevance:

• BNPL for Essential Services: Unlike Western BNPL focused on consumer goods, Ghana’s M-KOPA uses credit scoring to finance essential productive assets. After success in Kenya, M-KOPA expanded to Ghana in 2022, using proprietary scoring to finance solar systems and smartphones in peri-urban areas around Accra and Tamale. Their model evaluates mobile money transaction consistency to determine eligibility and repayment schedules.
• Healthcare Financing: Jamii Africa, which expanded to Ghana in 2023, uses credit scoring to evaluate eligibility for micro-health insurance and healthcare payment plans, allowing patients at partner clinics like Nyaho Medical Centre to access treatment on installment terms based on their digital financial history.
• Education Credit: Student financing platform LEAP Africa uses a combination of academic performance, guardian financial stability, and career path potential to score students for tuition loans at institutions like University of Ghana and KNUST. Their proprietary “future earnings potential” algorithm has helped over 1,200 Ghanaian students access higher education since 2021.

Benefits of Credit Scoring in the Ghanaian and African Context

The benefits of credit scoring in Ghana and Africa extend beyond those identified in Western markets, addressing specific regional challenges and opportunities.

Increased Financial Inclusion

Perhaps the most significant impact of credit scoring in Ghana has been expanding access to formal financial services. According to the Bank of Ghana’s 2023 Financial Inclusion Report, alternative credit scoring has helped increase the percentage of Ghanaians with access to formal credit from 8% in 2015 to 27% in 2023.

Dashable, a Ghanaian fintech startup, exemplifies this trend. Their mobile app uses proprietary scoring of digital transaction histories to provide first-time loans as small as GHS 50 (approximately $4 USD) to market traders in Takoradi and Tamale. Over 80% of their 65,000 customers had never received formal credit before accessing their services.

This expanded access translates into real economic impact. A 2023 study by Innovations for Poverty Action in partnership with the University of Ghana found that microentrepreneurs in Greater Accra who gained access to credit through mobile-based scoring systems increased their business income by an average of 32% over 18 months compared to unserved peers.

Reduced Costs and Operational Efficiency

Traditional lending in Ghana often required extensive paper documentation, in-person visits, and manual verification—processes that made small loans economically unfeasible for most institutions. Credit scoring has dramatically changed this equation.

According to a 2022 study by Financial Sector Deepening Africa, digital lending platforms in Ghana reduced loan origination costs by up to 85% compared to traditional banking processes, allowing profitable lending at much smaller amounts. Cal Bank’s digital lending arm reported that their average cost to originate a small business loan dropped from GHS 1,200 in 2018 to GHS 230 in 2023 after implementing automated scoring systems.

These efficiency gains benefit borrowers through faster decisions. Fidelity Bank Ghana’s “Fast Loan” product, which uses mobile scoring algorithms, provides decisions in under 5 minutes compared to the industry standard of 3-5 days for traditional loans.

Culturally Appropriate Risk Assessment

Perhaps uniquely in Africa, credit scoring has evolved to incorporate culturally relevant factors that traditional Western models would overlook.

For rural and agricultural lending in Ghana’s Northern Region, ADVANCE Ghana (Agricultural Development and Value Chain Enhancement) has developed scoring models that evaluate seasonal income patterns of smallholder farmers, community standing, and even drought resilience practices—factors particularly relevant to agricultural risk in Ghana’s climate.

Similarly, Ghana’s predominant informal economy has led to innovations in risk assessment. Peoples Pension Trust uses a scoring system that evaluates informal sector workers’ consistency in making small voluntary pension contributions as a proxy for reliability, providing small-business loans to market porters (kayayei) and food vendors who demonstrate consistent saving behavior despite irregular incomes.

Data-Driven Financial Education

An emerging benefit in Ghana has been the use of credit scores as financial education tools. MTN Ghana’s “YellowCredit” program provides users with their credit score and specific actions to improve it, creating a positive feedback loop that has improved financial behaviors.

According to MicroSave Consulting’s 2023 research in Kumasi, users who received regular updates on their credit scores were 64% more likely to make timely bill payments and 41% more likely to maintain consistent savings compared to those without score visibility.

Challenges and Concerns in the Ghanaian Context

Credit scoring in Ghana and broader Africa faces unique challenges beyond those encountered in more developed markets.

Infrastructure and Data Limitations

Despite significant mobile penetration, Ghana still struggles with fundamental data infrastructure challenges. Intermittent electricity in regions like Upper West and parts of Volta Region affects the consistency of digital transaction records. A 2023 study by the Ghana Statistical Service found that 37% of Ghanaians experience data connectivity issues at least weekly, potentially creating gaps in the digital footprints used for credit scoring.

The challenge extends to formal identification systems. Although Ghana Card registration has reached over 85% of adults, the incorporation of this data into financial systems remains incomplete. ZeePay Ghana reports that identity verification failures still account for approximately 18% of credit application rejections, even when applicants have sufficient financial profiles.

Cultural and Economic Realities

Traditional communal financial practices sometimes conflict with individualized credit scoring approaches. In many Ghanaian communities, particularly in regions like Brong Ahafo and Northern Ghana, “susu” collective saving groups and family resource pooling remain common financial strategies.

Sinapi Aba Savings and Loans has addressed this reality by developing “community-adjusted” scoring models that incorporate group guarantees and social collateral in communities around Tamale and Wa. Their default rates on these community-scored loans are 42% lower than individually scored products in the same regions.

Regulatory Evolution and Consumer Protection

Ghana’s regulatory framework for data usage and alternative credit scoring continues to evolve. The Data Protection Commission’s 2022 guidelines specifically addressed financial data usage but left significant gray areas regarding telecom data and social media information in credit decisions.

A concerning case emerged in 2023 when a lending platform operating in Tema and Ashaiman was found to be accessing borrowers’ phone contacts and threatening to message family members about late payments—a practice now explicitly prohibited by Bank of Ghana regulations.

In response, the Bank of Ghana established new Guidelines for Digital Lending in January 2023, requiring explicit consumer consent for data usage and prohibiting exploitative collection practices. Ghana’s Consumer Protection Agency has also established a specialized fintech complaints unit that handled over 3,200 cases in 2023, 47% related to digital lending.

Economic Volatility Challenges

Ghana’s recent macroeconomic challenges, including currency depreciation exceeding 30% in 2022 and inflation reaching 54.1% in December 2022, have tested the resilience of credit scoring models. Many models trained during more stable periods performed poorly during this economic stress.

ABSA Bank Ghana noted in their 2023 financial report that their small business scoring models required significant recalibration after default rates spiked from 4.7% to 12.3% during the height of Ghana’s 2022 economic turbulence. The bank has since incorporated macroeconomic stability indicators into their scoring algorithms to better anticipate economic shocks.

Digital and Financial Literacy Gaps

While smartphone penetration in Ghana reached 44% in 2023, meaningful usage of financial applications remains concentrated in urban areas and among younger populations. For many Ghanaians, particularly in rural areas like parts of Central and Western North regions, the concepts behind digital credit remain unfamiliar.

Opportunity International Savings and Loans has attempted to address this through their “Digital Financial Literacy” program, which has trained over 75,000 Ghanaians in communities like Twifo Praso and Assin Fosu. Their research shows that clients who complete this training are 52% more likely to understand digital credit terms and 37% less likely to experience delinquency.

Implications for Ghana’s Financial Sector

The evolution of credit scoring is fundamentally restructuring Ghana’s financial landscape, creating both opportunities and challenges for established institutions.

Changing Market Dynamics

Traditional Ghanaian banks with extensive branch networks, like GCB Bank with its 180+ branches, are facing unprecedented competition from digital lenders. Mobile-only operators like Jumo (partnered with MTN) approved over 85,000 loans in Ghana during 2023 without a single physical branch, according to the Bank of Ghana’s 2023 Payment Systems report.

This digital shift is evident even within traditional institutions. Standard Chartered Ghana reported in their 2023 annual report that 73% of their personal loans were initiated through digital channels using automated scoring, compared to just 17% in 2018. The bank subsequently reduced its physical footprint by closing 7 branches in secondary cities like Tarkwa and Techiman while expanding digital offerings.

Agricultural Development Bank (ADB), historically reliant on relationship managers’ personal knowledge of farming communities, has developed a hybrid approach. Their “ADB Smart Credit” system combines automated scoring of mobile money transactions with traditional agricultural extension officer reports, helping them maintain relevance in rural areas while improving efficiency.

Strategic Bank-Fintech Partnerships

Ghana’s financial sector has increasingly embraced collaborative models between traditional banks and fintech innovators. Rather than compete directly, many institutions have formed strategic partnerships that leverage respective strengths.

Stanbic Bank Ghana’s partnership with fintech Bayport is exemplary. Stanbic provides the balance sheet and regulatory compliance, while Bayport contributes scoring technology that evaluates public sector employees’ payment patterns and Ghana government payroll data to offer pre-approved loans through the USSD code *718#.

Consolidated Bank Ghana (CBG), formed after the 2018 banking sector cleanup, partnered with scoring platform Lendable to recover non-performing loans by rescoring legacy borrowers and offering restructuring terms calibrated to each borrower’s current financial situation. This partnership recovered approximately GHS 287 million in previously written-off debt during 2022-2023.

Emergence of Credit Markets and Secondary Lending

The standardization of credit scoring is enabling the emergence of early-stage credit markets in Ghana. The Ghana Fixed Income Market (GFIM) reported in 2023 that loan portfolios backed by standardized scoring models accounted for 15% of private debt placements, up from virtually none in 2020.

Ghana Home Loans pioneered the country’s first asset-backed security based on scored mortgage loans in 2022, with a GHS 260 million issuance that was significantly oversubscribed. The transparency provided by standardized scoring was cited by lead arranger Databank as a key factor in investor confidence.

For government initiatives, scoring has enabled more effective deployment of targeted credit. The Ghana CARES program, through partnership with Ghana Association of Bankers, deployed GHS 600 million in COVID-19 recovery loans to MSMEs using standardized scoring through participating banks like Access Bank and Republic Bank, achieving a 92% repayment rate compared to historical rates of 65-70% for similar government-backed schemes.

The Future of Credit Scoring in Ghana and Africa

Looking ahead, several trends will likely shape Ghana’s credit scoring landscape:

Ghana’s Digital Identity Integration

The full integration of the Ghana Card into financial systems represents a transformative opportunity. The Ghana Interbank Payment and Settlement Systems (GhIPSS) is developing an API that will allow real-time verification of Ghana Card data for lending decisions. When completed in late 2025, this system will potentially reduce identity fraud in digital lending by up to 90%, according to GhIPSS projections.

Bank of Ghana’s Financial Inclusion Coordinator, Dr. Kwame Oppong, noted at the 2023 Ghana Economic Forum that “the integration of Ghana Card with credit scoring will potentially bring an additional 4.2 million Ghanaians into the formal credit ecosystem by 2026.”

Pan-African Credit Information Sharing

Regional integration initiatives present significant opportunities for cross-border credit scoring. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is developing a regional credit information sharing framework that would allow Ghanaian lenders to access credit histories from Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire, and other member states.

This integration would particularly benefit Ghana’s border communities like Aflao (Togo border) and Elubo (Côte d’Ivoire border), where cross-border trading is common. Ecobank’s pan-African presence positions it to benefit from this regional integration, with plans to launch unified scoring across its West African operations by 2026.

Climate-Resilient Credit Scoring

With Ghana facing increasing climate-related challenges, especially in northern agricultural regions, scoring models are beginning to incorporate climate resilience factors. The Ghana Agricultural Insurance Pool, in partnership with GAIP Insurance, is developing scoring models that evaluate farmers’ adaptation practices and diversification strategies when extending credit.

Similarly, coastal fishing communities in regions like Western and Central Region are seeing specialized scoring models that consider sustainable fishing practices and alternative livelihood development as risk factors, recognizing the climate vulnerabilities affecting these traditional livelihoods.

Digital Currency Integration

The Bank of Ghana’s e-Cedi project, one of Africa’s most advanced central bank digital currency initiatives, may significantly impact credit scoring. The transaction data generated through this digital currency could provide unprecedented visibility into spending patterns and financial behaviors, particularly for the informal sector that remains difficult to assess.

Sandbox testing conducted throughout 2023 with selected financial institutions in Greater Accra showed that transaction patterns visible through the e-Cedi prototype allowed for 28% more accurate credit risk assessment compared to traditional methods when scored by participating institutions.

Conclusion

Ghana’s journey with credit scoring reflects both universal principles of risk assessment and unique adaptations to local realities. From the bustling markets of Makola to the cocoa farms of Western Region and the emerging tech hubs of Accra, credit scoring is evolving to meet distinctly Ghanaian needs while incorporating global best practices.

Author: Louis Gyimah